Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups

If you’re looking for a breakfast that feels like a warm hug, then you’ve come to the right place! Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups are not only delicious but also super easy to whip up. I love making these oatmeal cups on busy mornings or when friends come over for brunch. They’re perfect for sharing, and everyone loves that sweet aroma of apples and cinnamon filling the kitchen. Plus, they can be made ahead of time, so you can enjoy a cozy breakfast without any fuss!

These oatmeal cups are a wonderful way to start the day. They’re hearty enough to keep you satisfied while being light enough not to weigh you down. Whether it’s a weekday rush or a leisurely weekend gathering, these little gems fit every occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have these delicious cups ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the sweet apple and cinnamon flavor.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with wholesome oats and apples, these treats are a nutritious choice for breakfast.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake a batch on Sunday, and enjoy them throughout the week!
• Versatile Options: Customize your oatmeal cups with different fruits or nuts based on what you have at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create our Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups! These ingredients are not only easy to find but also packed with flavor and nutrition.

For the Base

• 1 and 1/2 cups milk (360ml, either dairy or non-dairy)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup (120ml)
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce (120g)
• 3 cups old-fashioned whole oats (255g)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 and 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon powder
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg powder
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla essence
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Add-Ins

• 1 generous cup chopped peeled apple (120g)
• Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (50g)
• Optional: coarse sugar for sprinkling

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 28 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it based on your tastes or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

• Change Up the Fruit: Swap in your favorite fruit like pears or bananas for a different twist.
• Nut-Free Option: Leave out the nuts if allergies are a concern, or replace them with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
• Add Some Spice: Experiment by adding in some ginger or cardamom for an extra kick of flavor!
• Sweeten It Differently: If maple syrup isn’t available, try using honey or agave syrup instead.

How to Make Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating ensures that our oatmeal cups bake evenly and develop that lovely golden color.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, maple syrup, applesauce, and vanilla essence. Mixing these ingredients first helps combine all those wonderful flavors before adding in the dry ones.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the oats, baking powder, cinnamon powder, nutmeg powder, and salt. This step is important because it ensures even distribution of spices throughout your oatmeal cups.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Now, gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be gentle here; overmixing can make them tough instead of fluffy! Then stir in those delightful chopped apples (and nuts if you’re using them).

Step 5: Portion and Bake

Spoon the mixture into greased muffin tins or silicone molds—fill them about three-quarters full. If you want an extra touch of sweetness, sprinkle coarse sugar on top. Now pop them into your preheated oven and let them bake for about 28 minutes until they’re set and slightly golden.

Step 6: Cool & Enjoy!

Once they’re done baking, allow them to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. These Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups are best enjoyed warm but can also be stored in an airtight container for later enjoyment!

I hope you fall in love with this recipe just like I did! Enjoy your cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups

Baking these delightful oatmeal cups is a breeze, and with a few handy tips, you’ll ensure they come out perfectly every time!

• Use ripe apples: Ripe apples bring natural sweetness and flavor to your oatmeal cups. Choose varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for the best results.

• Mix thoroughly: Make sure to mix your ingredients well until they’re fully combined. This ensures even distribution of flavors and textures throughout the cups.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste! Adding a pinch of ginger or cloves can add a unique twist that complements the cinnamon beautifully.

• Let them cool slightly: Allow the oatmeal cups to cool for about 5 minutes after baking. This helps them set up better, making them easier to remove from the pan without falling apart.

• Store leftovers properly: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. They also freeze well, so you can enjoy a quick breakfast later on!

How to Serve Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups

These baked apple cinnamon oatmeal cups are not only delicious but also versatile! Here are some fun ways to present this scrumptious dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and healthy fats.
• Coconut cream: A dollop of coconut cream adds a creamy texture that balances the oatmeal’s heartiness.
• Fresh fruit slices: Serve with fresh apple slices on the side for an extra burst of flavor and color.

Side Dishes

• Yogurt parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and mixed berries for a refreshing contrast that balances the warm oatmeal cups.
• Smoothie: Blend up a smoothie made with spinach, banana, and almond milk for a nutritious drink that complements your breakfast.
• Fruit salad: A vibrant fruit salad adds freshness and lightness, making your meal feel more complete.
• Nut butter toast: Pair your oatmeal cups with whole grain toast spread with almond or peanut butter for an extra protein boost.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups will surely shine at breakfast, making every bite a delightful experience!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups are perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch ahead of time and have a delicious breakfast ready to go for busy mornings.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover oatmeal cups in an airtight container.
• Keep them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them (see below).

Freezing

• Allow the oatmeal cups to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen cups to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible. They will last for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from the fridge, simply pop them in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds or until warmed through.
• For frozen cups, thaw them overnight in the fridge or microwave directly from frozen for about 1-2 minutes until heated.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about these delightful oatmeal cups!

Can I make Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups without eggs?

Absolutely! You can substitute each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water). This will help keep your oatmeal cups moist and delicious.

How do I customize my Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups?

You can easily customize these oatmeal cups by adding your favorite mix-ins! Consider adding dried fruits like cranberries or raisins, seeds like chia or pumpkin seeds, or even swapping apples for pears. The options are endless!

Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?

While old-fashioned oats provide a great texture, you can use quick oats if that’s what you have on hand. Just keep in mind that they may result in a slightly different texture—so adjust cooking time accordingly.

How long do Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, these oatmeal cups will last up to 5 days. If you freeze them, they can maintain their deliciousness for up to 3 months!

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings warmth and joy to your breakfast table! Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups are not just easy to make but also packed with flavors that will brighten your mornings. Enjoy making these delightful little treats, and feel free to get creative with your own twists. Happy baking!